It’s no secret that discussions about politics can get pretty heated.
Not seeing eye-to-eye with your estranged uncle during Christmas dinner or arguing with the neighbour down your street is one thing, but having political differences with your marriage partner could be a recipe for disaster.
Of course, it isn’t a guarantee that couples with different political leanings are destined to split. It will depend on the intensity of the beliefs and whether or not they incite more difficulties in other parts of the marriage as well. More likely, political differences could be the motivating factor that leads to more arguments and distrust.
But can you file for divorce solely on the grounds of political disagreement?
Irreconcilable Differences
Divorce is not necessarily triggered by a traumatic incident, such as a significant financial change, physical or mental trauma, or infidelity.
Many marriages end more or less because the relationship has broken down with no hope of repair. This is referred to as a no-fault divorce based on “irreconcilable differences”.
There are many possible causes that could be pointed at when defending this viewpoint of irreconcilable differences. It may be based on perspectives on child discipline, religion or other controversial topics. Politics can certainly fit into this category as well. In Ontario, divorces under this heading simply file on the basis of being separated for at least one year.
What is the tipping point?
Ultimately the tipping point in a relationship depends on whether or not the couple thinks they can work things out. This is true whether there are disagreements about politics, or anything else.
Filing for a divorce due to irreconcilable differences, and more importantly, one year of separation, means that you don’t need any dramatic grounds for divorce. Provided that you follow all the correct procedures, you can expect to get a divorce.
Talk with us!
If you have any questions about divorce or how differences of opinions within your house might be contributing to an unhealthy environment, feel free to visit Epstein & Associates for a discussion about your options.
We provide a free initial consultation, so you can get a sense of our team and who you’d be working with, which gives you the peace of mind to pursue whichever legal option serves you best!